9 Foods That Improve Brain Function and Health

It is a well-known fact that certain games and activities can help boost brain power. But did you know that there are certain foods that can improve brain power as well? Here are several delicious treats that can improve mind function and satisfy your gastronomic desires as well:

1) Wild Salmon

Deep water fish are chock full of omega-3 fatty acids, helpful substances that can improve brain function. But if you want to make the most out of these constituents, then make sure to choose the best fish out there: Wild Salmon. So why is wild salmon the perfect choice for those wanting to improve cognition? They are bountiful in the sea. Apart from that, they are usually free from mercury and other pollutants, as indicated by Dr. Ann Kulze in her book, “Dr. Ann’s 10 Step Diet.” To improve your brain, as well as obtain the high levels of anti-inflammatory substances found in wild salmon, make it a point to consume a 4-ounce serving two to three times weekly.

2) Whole Grains

If you want your stomach and brain to feel full all at the same time, then make sure to incorporate whole grain breads, brown rice and oatmeal in your diet. These filling grains keep you full as they work their way to improve cardiovascular health. With better heart health flow to the brain is enhanced – meaning better mental functions for you! For a healthy heart and a fit mind, include one slice of whole wheat bread per meal, or half a cup of whole grain cereal per day.

3) Cauliflower

You might not like your greens, but some variants, especially the cauliflower, can do great wonders for the mind. According to medical experts, a substance called citicoline can improve brain power and efficiency. These substances can only be obtained by eating choline-rich foods, such as cauliflowers. The choline in this vegetable will then be utilized by your body as brain-improving citicoline. So instead of purchasing expensive supplements, the cheaper and better way to get the recommended dose per day is to chomp on cauliflower religiously.

4) Tomatoes

You might still be engaged in the long-standing debate of whether or not a tomato is a fruit or a vegetable. Do note, however, that no matter which side you pick, one thing remains certain: tomatoes are perfect foods for the brain. Tomatoes are abundant with lycopene, a substance that protects the brain cells from the damage caused by free radicals. By incorporating tomatoes into your daily diet, you can improve your mental capacity and shield your brain from the crippling effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

5) Nuts and Seeds

According to Dr. Steven Pratt, author of the book “Superfoods Rx,” nuts and grains are brimming with Vitamin E, a substance needed to prevent the mental decline associated with aging. As per expert recommendations, the best way to benefit from the Vitamin E found in nuts and seeds is to eat at least one ounce of serving per day. With the many variants available for consumption, such as Brazil nuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and flax seeds.

6) Avocados

While avocados are notorious for their high caloric content, they are actually very effective in promoting brain function. It cannot be denied that they are rich in fat, these fats, also known as monounsaturated fats, are the good ones. So how do monounsaturated fats improve mental ability? According to Pratt, these substances promote healthy blood flow to various parts of the body, especially the brain.

Avocados are also instrumental in lowering blood pressure, therefore avoiding hypertension, a condition that can affect the cognitive faculties negatively with age.

7) Blueberries

Looking for a sweet ending to a brain-boosting meal? Instead of your usual fattening choices, pick Blueberries instead. These small yet terrible fruits pack on the pounds, especially when it comes to substances that boost brain health. According to Pratt, blueberries are proven effective in protecting the brain from oxidative stress, apart from defending it from the bad effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. To top it all up, blueberries have also been found effective in improving cognition and other mental capacities. So if you want to satisfy your sweet tooth and build a better brain all at the same time, munch on a cup of blueberries (fresh, freeze-dried or frozen) everyday.

8) Dark Chocolate

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Yes, you read it right. That sinful dark chocolate inside your cupboard can actually enhance brain function. In fact, it comes with a number of substances that altogether promote mental health. Firstly, dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants that protect the brain from the adverse effects of free radicals. Secondly, it comes with caffeine, a stimulating substance that improves focus and memory. Last but not the least, dark chocolate consumption leads to the production of endorphins, a ‘feel-good’ hormone that elevates your mood.

Unlike other brain foods, increased intake of dark chocolate can harm mental health instead of improving it. Yes, dark chocolate is just too irresistible, but make it a point to limit your daily intake to ½ to 1 ounce per day.

9) Freshly Brewed Tea

Tea is technically not food, however, it is as effective as the aforementioned fares when it comes to enhancing brain function. This soothing drink is loaded with antioxidants known as catechines – substances that improve blood flow to the brain. As it was established, better blood flow means better mind power. Tea also contains caffeine, a stimulant that can improve concentration and focus, especially if consumed correctly. Keep in mind that powdered and bottled teas won’t do your mind any good. If you wish to improve your mental faculties, make sure to drink only freshly-brewed variants.

Brain-boosting foods are just as important as mental games and exercises. Improve your cognitive facilities from within by feeding your mind with these mind-enhancing fares.

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